Genetic testing can give you essential information about your pregnancy and help you make decisions about your health and the health of your new baby. It can also provide peace of mind, knowing that you and your baby are healthy. At Woodlands OBGYN Associates, we find many of our patients in The Woodlands, TX, will benefit from genetic testing during their pregnancy.
Below are just a few reasons why women may want to consider genetic testing:
- You have a family history of a genetic disorder: If you or your partner have a family history of a genetic disorder, you may be at increased risk for having a child with that disorder. Genetic testing will let you know if you are carrying the gene for the disorder and whether or not your baby is likely to be affected.
- You or your partner are from a population with an increased risk for certain genetic disorders: Certain people are at increased risk for certain genetic disorders. If you or your partner are from one of these populations, you may want to consider genetic testing to determine if you are at increased risk.
- You have had a previous child with a genetic disorder: If you have had a previous child with a genetic disorder, you may be at increased risk for having another child with the same or a similar disorder. Genetic testing can help you determine if your current pregnancy is affected.
- You have had multiple miscarriages: If you have had multiple miscarriages, genetic testing can help determine if there is an underlying cause of the miscarriage, such as a chromosomal abnormality.
- You are over 35 years old: Women who are over 35 years old are at increased risk of having a newborn baby with a chromosomal abnormality. Genetic testing can help determine if your baby is affected.
- You have a personal history or family history of cancer: If you or someone in your family has had cancer, you may be at increased risk for passing on a genetic mutation that predisposes to cancer. Genetic testing can help determine if you are carrying the gene for the disorder and whether or not your baby is likely to develop cancer in the future.
How do I learn more about genetic testing?
If you reside in The Woodlands, TX, and are considering genetic testing, contact Woodlands OBGYN Associates at 281-364-9898 to request an appointment.
